Clifton Rocks from Rownham Fields

This is one of Francis Danby's finest paintings from his years in Bristol. His main interest was the contrast between the cool shade and lush wasteland weeds, together with a sunlit patch where ill-shod boys loll in the heat. The dramatic Avon Gorge is relegated to the background, but Danby was careful to include the detail which makes it unmistakable. The Old Hotwell House is on the right, and the foliage of the oak tree is carefully arranged to reveal the ruined windmill on the summit of St Vincent's Rocks and the old lime kiln at their foot.